Wednesday 8 September 2010

Peter Jays' Superdome Circus, Blackpool















Traditional circus (with animals) ended at Blackpool Tower at the end of the 1990 season. Peter Jay invested heavily in continuing a show with animals on Blackpools Pleasure Beach from 1991 to 1996. The structure was built by Italian manufacturer Canobbio, and the metal framework was 36 x 26 x 12m. It was made of double skinned plastic, white on the outside and blue inside. Due to the fact that the 'tent' was suspended there were no poles to 'get in the way'.

The superdome had a spectacular ring entrance, designed by Andy Walmsley, and had a seating capacity of 1200 using seating blocks of individual 'bucket' seats. The ring fence came from the old Belle Vue circus and was 11.5 metres in diameter. A large stable building, caging and exercise areas was provided for the animals.

The superdome had a unique atmosphere, helped by the presence of Norman Barrett, and some very good shows were produced. The show and several of the acts won awards from the Circus Friends Association of Great  Britain.

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